How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller to use on your travels or you're looking for a lightweight compact stroller to take on the go There are plenty of alternatives. We've tried them all to help you choose the most suitable travel stroller that suits your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that is smooth and easy to drive across various terrains. It folds into a tiny carrying bag that fits in most overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold up into a compact, easy-to-store package that fits into overhead bins on planes as well as in trunks of cars. You should look for strollers that fold with only one hand, with no having to stoop. Many models also have a handy carry strap that allows you to sling the stroller over your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning on walking for a long time on your travels, a stroller that has a large basket under the seat is a good idea. It can be used to store large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we test. Weighing just 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers making it easier to maneuver on city streets. It's not the best choice for running, rough terrain, or for quick excursions.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design that's suitable for travel on air. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately) and comes with an ample storage compartment. It also offers a smooth ride over bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive compared to other strollers we evaluated, but it's worth it for parents who frequently use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers come with the convenience of transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that can be folded and unfolded with one hand, and is compatible with the majority of major car seats. Its front wheel suspension as well as swivel wheels ensure smooth travel on airports, pavements, and cobblestones. Additionally, its adjustable handlebar height can accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours takes popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for families. Itsy's stroller is lighter the light Pockit however it comes with a more durable frame, a powerful dual wheel suspension as well as a UPF50+ sun canopy as well as plenty of storage. It has a self standing fold that is simple to collapse. It also comes with a handy carry bag and carrying strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you pick should be easy to maneuver across all kinds of terrain. This is especially true if you intend to use your stroller for hikes or adventures where you may encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is simple to use and has wheels designed to grip the surface. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so that you can easily lift the stroller, carry it or store it with little effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is made for travel. It's a great choice for parents looking for a high-quality user-friendly product that has features that a lot of families would like to have in a travel-friendly, stroller. They include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an extendable canopy.
It's a little more difficult to push than other strollers with smaller wheels, but it handles well on a variety types of terrain and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than other strollers we evaluated however it comes with many features that parents want in a stroller. It comes with a user-friendly handlebar and is compact enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker style then the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our ratings and has a sleek, minimalist design that looks almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's also a little lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and earns an overall higher score for quality than other smaller strollers we've tried.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also durable and comfortable enough for several children. It's more expensive compared to other options, but it is constructed of top-quality materials. It also earned the highest rating in terms of ease-of-use. It comes with accessories, such as an umbrella and a rain cover that other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to give your child a comfortable ride. Find models that are padded and have a well-sized canopy. If you plan to use the stroller as a napper on your travels it is essential to recline. Also, ensure that the seat is suitable to your child's size. Some strollers are designed to be as light and compact as is possible, but this can be at the expense of the comfort of your child.
There are many options that combine the look and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is both lightweight and durable. Its aluminum frame is built to last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya also has a large canopy that offers great sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another great alternative. It is a sleek, innovative stroller designed to make traveling simple for children. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a variety of accessories and customisation options including weather shields, sun canopies and snack tray.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that doubles as a stroller for daily use, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. The spacious stroller moves smoothly and has all the features parents love like cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and has a large UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh window that peeks out.
A good choice for families with infant car seats is the Push Chairs & Prams Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller can be used with many infant car seats. It's a great choice for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller allows you to travel through busy airports and large cities.
A travel stroller should be comfortable for you and your child. Choose a model that has an ample, cushioned seat that reclines to allow naps during long trips. Seats with padded legrests offer a more comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a padded handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up to be so compact that they can be stored in trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. They are also typically lighter than 10 pounds, which makes them a breeze for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby's Minu was one of the first travel strollers that could be used as an everyday stroller. It is still a top choice among parents who pack light and do not want their stroller to be checked for gate access when they fly. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to get off the plane and fits into the majority of overhead bins. It also comes with many innovative features, like a one-handed folding mechanism as well as a large sunshade. a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to various recline positions.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that is an expensive option. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model we review, but it has a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and plenty of clever features (including the ability to recline as well as a padded foot brake and a large undercarriage basket and a straightforward, one-handed fold). Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong competitor, with its slim profile and convenient features. In our tests, it swung easily over a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its bottom storage basket is large enough to be a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you do not have much space to store your stroller, you may think about purchasing a bike shed. You can also build an area specifically for it. A garden shed is the perfect place to store your stroller since it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easy to access whenever you need it. A nook or shed can also be used as a secure spot to stash your stroller in the event that it is stolen or lost when you're out.